India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Bengaluru apprehended Kannada actress Ranya Rao at Kempegowda International Airport. They seized 14.8 kg of gold from her possession. The actress, who is the daughter of a senior DGP-ranked IPS officer in Karnataka. She is now under investigation for possible links to law enforcement.
The reports indicate that upon arrival, Ranya identified herself as the DGP’s daughter. She requested police escorts to her residence. Furthermore, the DRI is examining whether any officers were knowingly or unknowingly complicit in her smuggling operations.
Who is Ranya Rao?
Ranya, a native of Chikkamagaluru, completed her schooling and college education in Kodagu and Bengaluru. She is the stepdaughter of senior Karnataka IPS officer K. Ramachandra Rao. Ranya rose to fame with her debut film Manikya (2014), in which she played the second female lead alongside actor Sudeep. Significantly, the film enjoyed a successful 100-day theatrical run.
She later appeared in two more films—the Tamil movie Wagah (2016) and the Kannada film Pataki (2017), alongside Ganesh. Notably, both of her Kannada films were remakes. However, aside from her debut, none of her projects made a lasting impact, affecting her career in the industry. Furthermore, Ranya had remained out of the spotlight since 2017, until her recent arrest brought her back into public attention.
Current Investigation Status
Ranya, who landed in Bengaluru on Monday night aboard an Emirates flight from Dubai, had been under DRI watch. According to the sources, she has had frequent international travels.
Authorities revealed that she discreetly wore most of the gold while also hiding gold bars within her clothing. It is to be noted that the DRI has not yet issued an official statement in the case but has been noticing her movements.
The Revelation by DRI
The DRI on noticing highlighted that she had travelled to Dubai four times in the last 15 days. Acting on this intelligence, the agency intercepted her upon arrival. Following her arrest, Ranya was taken to the DRI headquarters for further interrogation. She was subsequently presented in court and remanded to 14 days of judicial custody.
In The End
Ranya Rao’s journey from a rising actress to facing serious legal troubles has taken an unexpected turn. Once known for her promising debut and subsequent film appearances, now, arrested for gold smuggling.
The incident has not only revived public interest in her but also raised concerns about possible law enforcement involvement. Furthermore, as the investigation unfolds, the case continues to draw attention, casting a shadow over her career in the film industry.